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Explore the backcountry on a one-of-a-kind adventure—from a dog sled! Muddy Paw Dog Sled Kennel has over 100 sled dogs rescued from around the country and given a place where they can do what they love best—sledding. With an experienced musher take on the best trails and freshest snow in an interactive adventure that can last anywhere from 2 hours to all day. Enjoy hot chocolate, treat the dogs to snacks, and see New Hampshire in a whole new way!

See Santa and feed his reindeer at Santa's Village. While Santa's village is open year round, it's especially wonderful in winter. At Christmastime Mrs. Claus greets guests and holidaylights brighten the evenings. This family friendly classic is great for all ages and has been operating for over 60 years. There's even a new 3D show this year called a "Tinkerdoodle Christmas" that is sure to delight.

Conway Scenic Railroad trains are a great way to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the White Mountains from a cozy vantage point. In addition to the usual Valley Train route, there is also Santa's Holiday Express running weekends through December 22nd, featuring Santa, his elves, hot chocolate, and cookies for everyone!

Ice Skating in Schouler Park is super convenient, right by North Conway Village and the train station where the Conway Scenic Railroad departs. There is also ice skating at the Ham Arena, where the Mount Washington Valley Skating Club is based. See their "Holiday on Ice" skate show as part of the Christmas festivities and tree lighting ceremony December 7th, or take a lesson for adults or children from the club's coaches. Whether you're a first timer or a seasoned pro, there's a lot of fun to be had on the ice.

There's no shortage of snowmobiling and skiing in the North Conway area. Many places you might have enjoyed hiking in the spring or summer have a totally different view in winter with the leaves off the trees and the countryside blanketed in snow. The extensive areas surrounding the Sacro River right across the street from the Green Granite make it easy to head out on an adventure and get a whole day of exploring in via snowmobile. With 7,000 miles of trails in the area, you're sure to have plenty of scenic routes to travel. As for skiing, the many mountains in the area have slopes suitable for many skill levels and lessons for those who have never tried skiing or snowboarding, as well as those who simply want to brush up since last season.

The White Mountains have long been a popular destination for skiers since the 19th century. Long before skiing really took off in the United States, the White Mountains were home to “some of the first purpose-cut ski runs on the continent and a host of other innovations in grooming, lifts, and ski schools were developed here in the 1930s,” according to National Geographic. The high peaks make for an exhilarating ride, and the conditions are perfect for powder. Despite the area’s longtime fame for great slopes, new skiers are still discovering New Hampshire’s many great mountains and the area continues to receive positive press.

Last year Bretton Woods praised New Hampshire as a top ski spot for families, with “beautiful views of Mount Washington and gorgeous grooming.” The Boston Globe picked Wildcat Mountain this year for “yanked-from-postcard views” that also get you a great vantage point of The Presidential Range and Mount Washington, and highlighted Cannon Mountain in Franconia Notch for its “character and soul” as one of the oldest ski resorts in the US. The New York Times highlighted Wildcat Mountain in 2009 for its seclusion, simplicity, and prime terrain for beginning and intermediate skiers, as well as those looking for a more wild ride.

Cross country skiers can enjoy numerous trails throughout the North Conway area, including those along Route 16A in Intervale, by the Saco River (across the street from the Green Granite, or ungroomed trails for more experienced skiers through the White Mountain National Forest. Less experienced skiers can explore Whitaker Woods or make their way to Intervale for a fun day trip. It’s a whole new way to experience the natural wonder of New Hampshire than summer hikes and ATV excursions.

With such a great history and range of trails, it’s no wonder so many people flock to North Conway for both cross country and downhill skiing. There’s also so much to see and do after a day hitting the slopes, like swinging by Moat Mountain Smokehouse and Brewery for local beers, wood-fired pizzas, burgers, nachos, and BBQ. Flatbread Company features organic fare, clay oven pizzas, with free-range meats, top-quality cheeses and plenty of toppings to fill you up after an active day. If you need supplies and equipment, there are numerous sports stores that stock what skiers need, including Joe Jones Sports, Bob and Terry’s Ski and Sports, North Conway Ski Equipment, and more.

If this weren’t enough to get you excited, the 2013-2014 ski season promises to be excellent with plenty of snow. An early start to the winter season and the placement of the jet stream over North Conway has many ski enthusiasts eagerly anticipating getting out on the slopes. As Outside Magazine explains, “The North Atlantic Oscillation, which follows the spread of high and low pressure across the northern Atlantic, is predicted to be “moderately negative” this winter. Negative NAO values can send storms as far south as Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and Philadelphia; although LaRosa sees the biggest dumps come to the Northeast.” Be sure to book your stay at the Green Granite for a ski vacation and make the most of this favorable winter weather pattern!

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